Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Leeds United defender Liam Cooper hit with SIX GAME ban for stamp on Reading's Reece Oxford

Leeds United defender Liam Cooper hit with SIX GAME ban for stamp on Reading

Leeds United defender Liam Cooper has been banned for six matches for his stamp on Reading's Reece Oxford.

Cooper was charged with violent conduct by the Football Association following an off-the-ball incident during Saturday's Championship clash.

The 25-year-old escaped punishment at the time but the FA took action after viewing video footage.

Having sat out Tuesday night's defeat at Brentford after accepting the charge, Cooper will now remain unavailable for selection until the final game of the season.

A statement from Leeds chief executive Ben Mansford read: "We are disappointed by the FA's decision to ban Liam Cooper for six matches following an incident in our game with Reading on Saturday.

"After careful consideration and consultation with the club, Liam pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him as he acknowledges that the coming together with Reece Oxford was reckless.

"However, in my experience Liam is an honest and genuine person who would never intend to hurt another player. Liam is a leader and his influence in the dressing room will still play a major role in the remaining fixtures this season."